Mountains and forest brim with attractions

October 09, 2011|By Matt Taylor, Globe Correspondent

The Flume at the base of Mount Liberty is a gorge extending 800 feet. (WHITE MOUNTAINS ATTRACTIONS )

The White Mountain National Forest traces its origins to a law that turned 100 this year. In 1911, President Taft signed the Weeks Act, which allowed the federal government to buy private forestlands to be managed and preserved. Drafted by Representative John Wingate Weeks of Massachusetts, it protects more than 20 million acres across the country. It also helped create White Mountain National Forest. Here are a few ways to enjoy these 800,000 acres of crystal clear lakes and streams, tree-lined trails, and snow-capped mountains.

TAKE THE SCENIC ROUTE

The Kancamagus Highway is the best-known scenic route through the forest. This 35-mile road from Conway to Lincoln is part of the White Mountains Trail and explodes in reds, yellows, and oranges for leaf peepers in the fall. Five scenic overlooks allow stops to inhale the peaceful views. For $25 the Mount Washington Auto Road, which celebrates its 150th birthday this year, offers an adrenaline rush for adventurous drivers looking to scale New England’s highest peak.

WATCH FOR WILDLIFE

The forest is home to thousands of species of animals and plant life. Black bears, moose, white-tailed deer, and more than 200 species of birds live in the area. Spotting a moose is an exhilarating experience, and they normally do not attack humans without provocation, but they are best enjoyed at a distance. They appear at night or at dusk, so driving alertly and with caution is a must. Black bears are large and powerful yet generally timid animals that appear at numerous locations in the forest and should also be kept at a safe remove. Wildlife tours are available in Gorham and Lincoln.

VISIT A COVERED BRIDGE

These historic, handcrafted structures are a must see in the mountains. Hurricane Irene damaged some spans in New Hampshire, including the Blair Bridge in Campton, but many remain intact and with interesting histories to recount. The Honeymoon Bridge in Jackson was built by a Civil War volunteer and finish carpenter. The first structure at the site of the Blair Bridge was destroyed by a fire set by an arsonist who claimed, “God told [him] to do it.’’ It was rebuilt in the late 19th century. The Bath-Haverhill Bridge in Woodsville is the oldest covered bridge in New England and was in continuous use for 170 years until it was closed to vehicular traffic in 1999.

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